The Type 99A (also known as ZTZ-99A) is China’s most advanced main battle tank (MBT).
Developed by Norinco and introduced in 2011, it is a modernized version of the Type 99, incorporating cutting-edge technology and improvements in mobility, armament, and protection. Designed to rival leading Western MBTs such as the M1 Abrams and Leopard 2, the Type 99A reflects the People’s Liberation Army’s (PLA) commitment to modernizing its ground forces.
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Type 99A Specifications
- Manufacturer: Norinco (China North Industries Corporation)
- First Appearance: 2011
- Crew: 3 (commander, gunner, driver)
- Weight: 58 tons
- Length: 11 meters (with gun forward)
- Width: 3.5 meters
- Height: 2.2 meters
- Main Armament: 125 mm smoothbore gun (capable of firing HEAT, APFSDS rounds, and laser-guided anti-tank missiles).
- Secondary Armament: 7.62 mm coaxial machine gun and 12.7 mm anti-aircraft machine gun.
- Engine: 1,500 hp turbocharged diesel.
- Max Speed: 80 km/h (on-road), 60 km/h (off-road).
- Range: 500 km (with external fuel tanks).
- Protection:
- Modular composite armor with layers of steel, ceramic, and composite materials.
- Active Protection System (APS) for intercepting anti-tank missiles.
- Thermal and radar camouflage devices.
- Electronic Systems:
- Digitalized fire control system.
- Advanced thermal imaging sensors.
- Networked digital communication.
Production and Numbers
- Total Production (estimated): Approximately 1,200 units combining Type 99 and Type 99A.
- Active Service: Exclusively with the People’s Liberation Army Ground Force (PLAGF).
Interesting Facts about the Type 99A
- Copy or innovation? While often compared to Russian MBTs like the T-90, the Type 99A includes locally designed components such as its engine and modular armor.
- Unique anti-tank mission: Its 125 mm gun can fire laser-guided anti-tank missiles, a rare feature among Western tanks.
- Digital innovation: Equipped with network-centric warfare systems, it allows coordinated operations with drones and other ground units.
- Active protection: The APS can detect and neutralize threats within seconds, comparable to the Trophy system used by Israeli tanks.
Comparison with Western Tanks
| Feature | Type 99A | M1 Abrams (USA) | Leopard 2 (Germany) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 58 tons | 66 tons | 62 tons |
| Main Gun | 125 mm (smoothbore) | 120 mm (smoothbore) | 120 mm (smoothbore) |
| Max Speed | 80 km/h | 67 km/h | 72 km/h |
| Engine | 1,500 hp (diesel) | 1,500 hp (gas turbine) | 1,500 hp (diesel) |
| APS | Yes | No (standard versions) | Some versions equipped |
| Estimated Cost | ~$2.5 million | ~$8 million | ~$6 million |
Sources: GlobalSecurity.org – www.globalsecurity.org, Military Today – www.militarytoday.com, Norinco Corporation – www.norinco.com
